In an extract from his new book, Tim Lenton explains how Fridays for Future challenged climate inaction to reach a positive tipping point
In August 2018, Greta Thunberg was sitting alone on the ground outside the Swedish parliament with a placard reading “Skolstrejk för klimatet” (School strike for climate) and a bunch of pamphlets under a stone.
An older woman stood over her and asked: “Why are you on strike? You have to go to school.” Greta retorted: “Why would I need an education if there is no future?”
“If you get an education, you can affect the future,” replied the woman. “That’s what you’re supposed to do, you children and young people. For us old people it’s too late.”
“It’s not too late,” said Greta. After a few more exchanges the woman walked away, looking dismayed.
